Masimo (NASDAQ: MASI), a global leader in medical technology, today announced the $350 million sale of its consumer audio division, Sound United, to Harman International, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. The Masimo $350M audio unit sale marks a significant strategic shift as the company intensifies its focus on core healthcare innovation.
The agreement will transfer ownership of Sound United’s prestigious portfolio—including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, and Polk Audio—to Harman’s expansive audio brand family, which already includes JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, Mark Levinson, Arcam, and Revel.
“This transaction represents a key milestone as we execute our strategy to streamline operations and prioritize growth within the healthcare sector,” said Quentin Koffey, Vice Chair of Masimo’s Board. “Finding the right home for this business has been a priority since day one of the new board’s leadership.”
Masimo originally acquired Sound United in 2022 for approximately $1 billion. However, the expansion into the consumer market faced backlash from investors, resulting in a proxy battle, leadership changes, and continued legal proceedings involving the company’s founder and former CEO, Joe Kiani.
Katie Szyman, who assumed the role of CEO in 2023, stated: “A key objective has been realigning Masimo to focus on areas of unmet clinical need. This sale enables us to better allocate resources and drive operational efficiencies. We are confident that Sound United and its exceptional team will thrive under Harman’s stewardship.”
Dave Rogers, President of Harman’s Lifestyle Division, welcomed the acquisition, noting: “This is a strategic step forward in expanding Harman’s footprint in high-performance audio across categories such as home audio, headphones, hi-fi components, and automotive sound.”
The Masimo $350M audio unit sale is expected to close by the end of 2025, subject to customary regulatory approvals.
Masimo is being advised by Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, with a team led by partners Lauren S. Boehmke, Mehdi Ansari, Davis J. Wang, Neal McKnight, Juan Rodriguez, Michael Rosenthal, and Samantha F. Hynes.
